I met Julie Van Espen during my year abroad during which time we made the best memories, be that dancing the night away or eating popcorn whilst singing our hearts out to different musicals. Devastatingly, 2 years ago Julie was murdered by a twice convicted rapist during an attempted sexual assault, whilst cycling to meet friends.

Julie’s murder raised awareness and sparked changes in laws around sexual assault in Belgium, as she would still be alive today had justice taken more responsibility. Julie was the strongest, most positive ray of sunshine in so many people’s lives, and she would be so proud that positive change came out of the tragic thing that happened to her. 

I strongly believe no woman should experience sexual violence or assault in any form, yet myself and so many women close to me have been severely affected by such crimes. Because of this, I will be doing a 12 hour Just Dance-A-Thon raising money for Solace Women’s Aid, who fight to prevent sexual violence and assault towards women whilst supporting survivors of such crimes to build safe and strong lives. 

For those of you that know me, dancing really isn’t my forte (the expression two left feet comes to mind) but here I am, doing it for 12 hours solid. I couldn’t think of anything better suited to Julie’s joyous approach to life, and I know she would absolutely love it.

I will be doing this from 10am to 10pm on Friday 30^th April, where I will be using Just Dance to help with all my choreography needs. I may take one 5-minute max break per hour for toilet/food if necessary. The whole thing will be live streamed on Facebook, Instagram and this fundraising page and friends will be joining me for periods of time throughout the day, so if you fancy having a laugh or joining me for some banging beats and banter then please do!

I’m doing this for Julie, for myself, and for my friends who have been personally affected by sexual assault, so if you can help by making even the smallest of donations to prevent this from happening to anyone else, I would be so eternally grateful – thank you.